context: Authoritative Party media returned to the theme of ‘struggle’ on the eve of the annual summer leadership meetings, and so it is not especially surprising that Xi would use it as a clarion call at an opening ceremony for cadres beginning the autumn semester.
Xi Jinping 习近平 CCP Central Committee Chairman addressed young and middle-aged cadres at the Central Party School on 3 September, and emphasised the need for strict ideological, political and practical training to carry forward the spirit of tenacious struggle [顽强奋斗] , and realise the Chinese dream of the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Xi pointed out that many major events were full of hardships, born, developed and strengthened in struggle, including the
- emergence and development of Marxism
- birth and development of socialist countries
- establishment of the Chinese Communist Party
- founding of the People's Republic of China
- implementation of reform and opening up
- promotion of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era
The tasks of reform, development and stability are arduous, Xi noted, and China faces both rare historical opportunities and a set of major risks. In order to succesfully achieve goals and tasks set by the Party, cadres must strengthen their ability to struggle and carry that spirit forward. The struggles are not short-term but long-term, and require fortitude, courage, and a firm will. Risks are becoming more complex, Xi noted, and include dangers to
- the leadership of the Party and socialist system
- sovereignty, security and development
- core interests and major principles
- the people's fundamental interests
We should be particularly clear-headed and firm in our stance, Xi stated, steadfastly grasp the correct direction of struggle, and be unafraid and calm.
Xi pointed out that China's development has entered a period when various risks are accumulating and deepening: some of the major struggles to be faced are economic, political, cultural, social, ecological, and also involve national defense and army building, as well as work concerning Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, diplomacy, and Party building. Leading cadres should acquire the ability to predict potential risks scientifically, to know where the risks are, what they indicate and their likely trajectories, and to fight.
Xi emphasised that struggle is an art, and cadres need to be good at it. Cadres should come as soon as they are called, be able to fight and win the battle, and strive for and secure unity.
Xi stressed that the spirit and skill of struggle are not innate: cadres should undergo rigorous ideological tempering, political experience and practical training, and dare to
- take the initiative to engage in all kinds of struggles
- show their swords in the face of major and minor issues
- confront difficulties and stand up in the face of crises and difficulties
- fight resolutely against unhealthy practices
- serve as commanders and combatants
- cultivate and maintain a tenacious fighting spirit, tenacious fighting will and a superb fighting ability
- deal with major natural disasters, mass incidents, ‘evil forces’, and other challenges
Central Party School President Chen Xi 陈希, Politburo members Wang Huning 王沪宁, Ding Xuexiang丁薛祥, and Huang Kunming 黄坤明 attended.